Farewell Spit Lighthouse

The Farewell Spit Lighthouse was constructed on the northern end of Golden Bay in 1870 to warn mariners of the dangers of the shoals and currents near the spit.

History

• The original lighthouse tower was built using timber, but it did not last long due to weathering issues.
• The entire structure was replaced in 1897 with a steel lattice tower.

The Farewell Spit Lighthouse is constructed from steel lattice materials. Its design provides excellent visibility for mariners navigating the area.

Architecture

• The lighthouse stands at a height of 30 meters (98 feet) above sea level, and its focal height is approximately 40 meters (131 feet).

The Farewell Spit Lighthouse emits four distinct light patterns, each with a range of up to 19 nautical miles. The colors used for the lights are red, white, white, and white, respectively.

Light Characteristics

• The light periods are 15 minutes each.

The Farewell Spit Lighthouse is no longer an active aid to navigation. It has been automated and is currently not in use as a navigational aid.

However, it remains a notable landmark and a part of New Zealand's maritime heritage.

Location and Accessibility

• Farewell Spit Lighthouse is located at the northern end of Golden Bay, near Cape Farewell.
• The lighthouse is situated on a narrow sand spit that stretches for approximately 25 kilometers (16 miles) along the coast.
• Due to conservation efforts, visitors are restricted from accessing the area except through organized tours.

Farewell Spit Lighthouse has been designated as a protected site by the Department of Conservation. The surrounding area is also recognized as a Ramsar wetland site and an East Asian–Australasian Flyway Shorebird Network site.

Notable Historical Events

• Farewell Spit has been the site of several shipwrecks and vessel strandings, particularly in the era of merchant sailing vessels.
• The lighthouse played a crucial role in warning mariners of these dangers.